Historical Marker

Arthur C. Horton, M.D.

Historical marker location:
Brownsboro, Texas
( 4 mi. west of Brownsboro on SH 31, then .4 mi. south on CR 3621)
Marker installed: 1991
Marker size: 27" x 42"

(August 27, 1873 - June 6, 1946) A native of Mississippi, Arthur Columbus Horton came to Texas with his family in 1876. He studied medicine at Barnes Medical College in St. Louis, Missouri and the University of Dallas Medical College (later Baylor University College of Medicine).

Dr. Horton married Sallie Belle Worsham in 1899, and opened a medical practice in Henderson County, where he served the public for four decades. After the death of his first wife in 1905, Horton married Vinnie Lee Scott in 1906, and they moved from Leagueville to Murchison where he practiced medicine, served as county health officer and, as a member of the school board, was instrumental in the consolidation of local rural schools. He also was active in the local Masonic Lodge, Methodist church, and Red Cross. He later moved his family and practice to Brownsboro, where he remained until his death.

Among Dr. Horton's professional accomplishments was his instrumental role in the eradication of malaria from East Texas. He volunteered for medical service during two of Texas' most devastating disasters, the 1900 Galveston storm and the 1937 New London School explosion

As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.

medical topics and health professionals
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
Texas has been a major oil-producing state for over a century. The first big oil discovery in Texas was the Spindletop field near Beaumont in 1901, which set off a massive oil boom that transformed the state's economy and made Texas one of the wealthiest states in the country.
Texas random facts
Henderson County, located in the northeastern part of Texas, has a rich and fascinating history. Before the arrival of European settlers, the area was home to various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Cherokee. The land became a part of the Republic of Texas in 1836 and was formally organized as Henderson County in 1846, named in honor of James Pinckney Henderson, the first governor of Texas.

In the mid-19th century, Henderson County experienced a significant influx of settlers, mainly from the southern United States. These settlers primarily engaged in agriculture, taking advantage of the fertile soils and favorable climate to grow crops such as cotton, corn, and vegetables. The first county seat was established in Athens, which remains the county seat to this day.

During the Civil War, Henderson County, like much of the South, was affected by the conflict. Although there were no significant battles fought in the area, the war had a profound impact on the local economy and social fabric. Many men from Henderson County enlisted in the Confederate Army, and the war's aftermath brought significant challenges and changes to the region.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Henderson County continued to thrive, with the agricultural industry playing a pivotal role in the local economy. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further bolstered economic development, facilitating the transportation of goods and increasing opportunities for trade. Over time, other industries such as manufacturing and healthcare also emerged. Today, Henderson County remains a vibrant community, preserving its rich heritage while embracing progress and growth.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Henderson County, Texas.

  • 1846 - Henderson County established as a county of the Republic of Texas.
  • 1850 - First census conducted, showing a population of 1,714.
  • 1851 - Athens becomes the county seat.
  • 1861-1865 - Henderson County residents participate in the American Civil War.
  • 1880 - Cotton production becomes a major industry in the county.
  • 1902 - The first oil well is drilled in the county, leading to the development of the oil industry.
  • 1930s-1940s - Henderson County experiences economic growth due to the construction of the Cross Lake Dam and the establishment of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Fish Hatchery and Fish Experiment Station.
  • 1960s-1970s - Lake Palestine and Cedar Creek Lake are created, attracting tourism and real estate development.
  • 1987 - The Henderson County Courthouse is destroyed by fire but is rebuilt and restored.
  • 2000 - The population of Henderson County reaches 73,277.
  • 2019 - Henderson County celebrates its 173rd anniversary since establishment.